Primary Syndromes of Alcohol Abuse: Their Measurement and Correlates

Summary A factor analysis of the Alcohol Use Inventory identified four major syndromes of alcohol abuse in a clinical sample of N = 274 individuals. The first factor, labelled Alcohol Dependence, was characterized by loss of behavioural control when drinking, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, repeated attempts to stop drinking, and a compulsive drinking style. This factor was correlated with chronic social debilitation and various aspects of psychopathology. Factor I provided empirical evidence for the alcohol dependence syndrome described by Edwards and Gross. The second factor, termed Perceived Benefits From Drinking, was defined by a sustained drinking style and belief that alcohol use facilitates social and mental functioning. A correlation with anxiety symptoms indicated that drinking may be used to cope with stressful situations, especially in social interactions. The third factor was Marital Discord and encompassed drinking problems that either instigated or resulted from marital difficulties. The fourth factor, Polydrug Abuse, was marked by the use of illicit drugs in conjunction with a gregarious style of drinking. High scorers on this factor tended to be younger, socially deviant and rebellious. The results from this study supported a quantitative, multiple syndrome conception of alcohol abuse. Individuals may be ordered along several dimensions according to their level of problem severity.